Rhythmic Gymnastics (RG):

Increases flexibility and strength and prepares the body for the life's challenges

Develops healthy minds and bodies for now and later life

Rhythmic gymnastics is for women and girls of all ages. Experience Rhythmic Gymnastics and watch your confidence and creative skills grow in leaps and bounds. Once you've found a club and learnt the basics, you can develop your skills for fun and fitness or challenge yourself further through competitions from local to national, right through to international level.

Rhythmic Gymnastics can be performed individually or in groups of up to 5 gymnasts. The skill and variety of apparatus exchanges between gymnasts in group performances adds to beautiful spectacle of this Gymsport.

The following apparatus are used in competitive Rhythmic Gymnastics:

Rope - Light and supple, in hemp or synthetic material; use the rope to leap over or skip then add in swings, throws, circles, rotations and figures of eight.

Hoop - made of plastic or wood; rotate the hoop around the hand or body then add rolls, swings, circles, figures of eight, throws, passes through and over the hoop.

Ball - made of rubber or synthetic material, 18 - 20 cms in diameter; rest the ball in the hand then add throws, bounces or rolls.

Clubs - made of wood or synthetic material; use the clubs for rhythmical tapping then add mills and small circles, asymmetric movements, throws and catches.

Ribbon - 6 metres long and probably the most popular event for the spectators; use the ribbon for large, smooth flowing movements to make spirals and circles then add swings, circles and serpents.

Freehand - performances without apparatus; instead the emphasis is on style, technique and execution of dance skills. Freehand is most often seen in lower levels.

If you would like to take your Rhythmic Gymnastics career further, find out more about specific judging and coaching courses.